Junkies, Inc. to Assume Operation of Hearts & Hands Thrift Shoppe in Townsend

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Junkies, Inc. to Assume Operation of Hearts & Hands Thrift Shoppe in Townsend, TN

Transition set for January 1, 2026

TOWNSEND, TN — After eight years of faithful service to the community, Hearts & Hands Thrift Shoppe, a nonprofit organization known for providing local scholarships to students and adults pursuing higher education, will officially transfer ownership of its retail operations to Junkies, Inc. on January 1, 2026.

Moving forward, Hearts & Hands will continue its work as a nonprofit organization focused solely on raising funds to support higher education opportunities for local students and adults pursuing college, graduate studies, and accredited trade schools. While the thrift store operations will be transferred to Junkies, Inc., Hearts & Hands will remain active in the Townsend community through dedicated fundraising events, scholarship campaigns, and partnerships with local businesses and residents. The organization will continue to provide scholarships specifically for students residing in Townsend and the 37882 zip code, ensuring its long-standing mission of supporting local education continues for years to come.

“My own story is deeply woven into this mission,” said Jill Free-Hepperly, Founder and Owner of Junkies, Inc. “There was a time in my life when I wasn’t seen as qualified or capable of success. But someone believed in me—and that opportunity changed everything. Through hard work, faith, and a deep desire to learn, I fell in love with business and discovered my purpose.

I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside men, women, and families who are rebuilding their lives after long-term recovery and/or incarceration, only to find that the workplace doesn’t always open doors to meaningful opportunities. I’ve seen that when someone discovers their value in the workplace—along with their confidence and purpose through work—they not only change their own story, but they also impact their families, their communities, and the world around them.

At Junkies, Inc., we believe that when people are given the tools and the trust to grow, they don’t just change their own lives—they transform workplaces, families, and entire communities.”

Looking ahead, Junkies, Inc. plans to operate the thrift store six days per week and offer hands-on training workshops, workforce development programs, and Kid-preneur Days to inspire young entrepreneurs. The organization also plans to host fundraising events, auctions, and other exciting opportunities for the public to partner with Junkies, Inc. and support its growing mission to serve others through meaningful work.

“Our first short-term goal,” Free-Hepperly added, “is to build sustainability in this location—raising enough funds to purchase the property and remain right here in Townsend, serving the community for years to come.”

About Junkies, Inc.

Junkies, Inc. is a nonprofit organization focused on personal growth, leadership, and workforce development. Through community engagement, training opportunities, and hands-on initiatives, Junkies, Inc. equips individuals with the skills and confidence to thrive in work and life.

For more information, visit JunkiesInc.com or follow @JunkiesInc on social media.

Media Contact:
Jill Free-Hepperly
Owner, Junkies, Inc.
📞 (865) 323-5041
🌐 JunkiesInc.com